Stop and “Paws” to Mark National Walk Your Dog Week

Why would a couple of podiatrists and their staff want to a). make such a bad pun in their blog title and 2). draw attention to walking the dog? It’s simple – all of us at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland believe that walking a dog can be just as beneficial to you as it is to your little Oliver or Daisy.

Two ways to mark National Walk Your Dog Week – October 1-7, 2017

Start by acknowledging the benefits to your dog:

great exercise

enjoying fresh air

socializing with people and dogs you meet along the way

strengthening the bond between pet and owner

smelling all the cool smells

Next, understand that all of the benefits to your dog also apply to you (with the probable exception of that innate need to smell things). When you walk the dog, you’re also out there getting good cardiovascular exercise, enjoying the fresh air, and shooting the breeze with a friend or neighbor who may be walking along with you. Walking is easy on the joints. It fights obesity. If it’s a sunny day, you’re getting a dose of sunlight that helps your body produce Vitamin D, which is needed for good bone health.

Walk for exercise, but protect your feet

Whether you’re walking the dog or just starting out a walking program of your own, make sure to avoid foot problems by following the advice of Dr. Craig B. Frey and Dr. Megan L. Oltmann, our qualified podiatrists:

Start out slowly. Don’t just decide to participate in a long walkathon without some proper training. Walk a short distance, and increase it gradually.

Get a shoe that’s made for walking. We recommend that you visit a retail shoe outlet that specializes in running and walking attire.

Consider contacting us for a full foot analysis before you begin walking. We can help you identify and correct any biomechanical issues such as flat feet before they become a problem.

Our state-of-the-art podiatry office is located in the beautiful community of Solon, Ohio, just outside of Cleveland. Bring problems with your “dogs” – your feet – to us with confidence. Call us at (440) 903-1041 or make an appointment online.